Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832) - Gemälde von Joseph Karl Stieler von 1828, Reproduktion, erschienen bei F.A. Ackermann, München, um 1925?

Since his adolescence Beethoven had known and loved poems by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. He set various Goethe texts to music, among them the "Flohlied" (Flea song) from the poet's work "Faust" (WoO 134) and the poem "Ich denke dein" (I think of you), (WoO 74). The most extensive and most relevant composition written between 1809 and 1810 is the music for Goethe's drama "Egmont" (op. 84).

In July 1812 both men finally met in person during a holiday in Teplitz and temporarily enjoyed a lively relationship. However, no permanent contact developed as their characters were too different.

Shortly after their acquaintance Beethoven began composing music for Goethe's poem "Meeresstille und glückliche Fahrt" (Calm sea and successful voyage), op. 112. The piece was completed in 1815 and published in 1822, accompanied by a dedication to the poet who received a copy of the score. At that time Beethoven must still have admired Goethe very much as an emotional letter from 1823 shows.

Goethe kept a distance to Beethoven. Even though he admired his ability and was very impressed with the music for "Egmont", he considered compositions such as "Mignons Gesang" (Mignon's songs), op. 75 No. 1, as too complex. In addition, he generally was concerned about his texts being set to music as he feared the music might push the original text in the background. Overall, the relationship between Beethoven and Goethe can be called a limited interest on the poet's and a creative dispute on the composer's side.(S.B.)